Yamaha launched the updated version of its entry-level FZ model – the 2019 FZ V3.0 and the FZ S V3.0. While the former is priced at Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom), the latter asks for a premium of Rs 2,000. The updates on the motorcycle are limited to cosmetic and mechanical changes. After all the changes, let’s check how the new version fares against its closest rivals, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and the Honda CB Hornet 160R.
Design and Features:
For 2019, Yamaha has given the FZ a major design update to make it look more muscular. Now, it looks similar to its elder sibling, the FZ25. The most significant change is on the front section which comprises a newly designed LED headlamp setup along with sculpted fuel tank with extensions sporting faux air vents, all of which make it look more butch. The previous split seat has made way for a single, wider unit for better comfort. It also gets a new LCD instrument cluster with white backlight.
Similar to the FZ, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V also takes major design inspiration from its bigger sibling, the Apache RTR 200 4V. The overall design language is aggressive with sleek tank extensions, headlamp and underbelly cowl. The instrument cluster of the Apache is fully-digital and displays ample of information. While it gets LED DRLs, it misses out on LED headlamps. Coming to the Honda CB Hornet 160R, similar to its competition, this also gets an athletic stance while the chunky rear wheel enhances its road presence. It received an update last year which brought LED headlamps and funkier graphics. All the information is displayed on a fully-digital instrument cluster.
Engine:
Starting with the Apache RTR 160 4V, it is powered by a 159cc, oil-cooled motor which can be had in either carburetor or fuel injected option. It churns out 16.1bhp and 14.8Nm of torque, which is the highest among the three. The Honda CB Hornet 160R gets a 162.7cc, air-cooled, carburetor engine that is good for 15bhp and 14.76Nm. Meanwhile, the Yamaha FZ V3.0 produces least power at 13bhp and 12.8Nm from its 149cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected powerplant. All the bikes consist of a five-speed gearbox.
Cycle Parts:
Both the Honda CB Hornet 160R and the Yamaha FZ V3.0 are based on a diamond frame while the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is underpinned by a double cradle frame. All the three motorcycles are suspended on telescopic forks on the front and monoshock at the rear. While the braking hardware is also similar, with all of them having disc brakes on both the ends, the Yamaha FZ gets smallest front disc of 242mm (Hornet – 276mm, Apache – 270mm). A single-channel ABS is available only on the Hornet and FZ but the Apache will also receive it soon owing to the government’s upcoming safety norms.
Pricing:
With a price tag of Rs 95,000 for the FZ and Rs 97,000 for the FZ S, both the bikes demand a premium of Rs 13,000 over the previous model, which is a considerable hike for this segment. The Honda Hornet 160R, on the other hand, comes for Rs 93,000 for the ABS standard version. Meanwhile, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V costs Rs 86,000 for the carburetor trim while the fuel-injected version is priced at Rs 92,000. The Apache appears to be the most affordable here but the price will increase after it gets equipped with ABS.
(all prices are ex-showroom)
